Youth Empowerment Program plans slate of programs

There have been some changes with the Flamborough Connects Youth Empowerment Program.

We bade a fond farewell to Hilary Szwalek in February as she took on a new full-time position in recreation, and in early March we welcomed Kaitlyn Baldarelli to lead the team while we recruit a permanent replacement.

Kaitlyn is a full-time student at Laurier who brings a ton of enthusiasm to the role. She and the team are looking forward to starting regular in-person meetings and activities in April.

Over March break the team is planning a hike to welcome spring — and all youth ages 13-18 are invited to join. Other activities on the agenda include podcasting, a Bob Ross painting tutorial, trivia nights and a dance party.

Flamborough young people interested in joining the planning team and receiving volunteer hours, or just joining activity nights to have some fun can contact Kaitlyn for more information about dates, times and locations at flamboroughconnects@gmail.com.

The team has also started its own Instagram account @TheNetFC. Taking direction from our community partners at Ancaster Community Services and their youth empowerment program — the Net ACS — we are connecting Flamborough young people directly to each other.

This new channel will be in place until we launch the “Name Your Hub” contest in the spring of 2022. Stay tuned and start thinking about a handle that defines Flamborough Youth.

The second annual Virtual Flamborough Youth Job Fair is scheduled for Saturday, May 14. Local businesses anticipating summer job opportunities for youth are welcome to register now by emailing admin@flamboroughconnects.ca.

We are looking for a youth programs co-ordinator. The ideal candidate is passionate about creating and facilitating inclusive spaces for young people ages 13-18 and is Canada Summer Jobs eligible. The co-ordinator will have a thorough knowledge of rural Hamilton, Flamborough and Waterdown, and youth services and resources in the area.

The primary role of the co-ordinator is to guide the youth-led Flamborough Connects Youth Empowerment team with enthusiasm, creativity and a good sense of fun. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate with experience working and supporting young people. For more information, visit flamboroughconnects.ca/about-us/careers.

View this article in the Flamborough Review here!